The Oyo State Police Command has successfully rescued a 60-year-old man who was abducted in Iseyin and arrested several suspects linked to kidnapping and murder across different parts of the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Ibadan, the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said the operations followed firm directives from the Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, to intensify security efforts and protect lives and property statewide.
According to the statement, armed assailants numbering about five stormed Budo area of Iseyin through Bassi Camp on January 11, 2026, and abducted Isiaku Saidu, 60. Upon receiving the report, the police leadership ordered an immediate rescue operation and the arrest of those responsible.
Acting on the directive, the Divisional Police Officer in Ago-Are, working with other security agencies, carried out aggressive patrols and extensive bush-combing, which led operatives to the kidnappers’ hideout. The suspects reportedly opened fire on sight, resulting in a gun battle during which one suspect was neutralised, while another was arrested and is currently assisting investigations. The remaining members of the gang escaped with gunshot wounds.
The police urged members of the public to report anyone seen with suspicious bullet injuries to the nearest police station.
In a related operation, the command also rescued another kidnap victim, identified as Hussinat Abubakar, who was abducted at Gelede Camp, Komu, in the Itesiwaju Local Government Area. The victim was freed without the payment of any ransom.
The police said the Divisional Police Officer in Komu, alongside partner agencies, carried out intensive search operations that led to the arrest of three suspects: Kari Ibrahim, 22; Dure Jimoh, 25; and Abubakar Sidi, 55. The suspects reportedly confessed to their involvement in the crime, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
The rescued victim is currently receiving medical care, and the suspects will be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations. Six expended cartridges were also recovered from the scene.
The police command stated that the operations underscore its resolve to swiftly rescue victims and prevent ransom payments that encourage criminal activities.
